Between Setúbal and Sesimbra lies the Arrábida Natural Park, a beautiful protected area covered with pines and rich Mediterranean vegetation, including many rare species.

Perched up on the hills overlooking the sea is a dazzling white 16th century Franciscan monastery, and along the slope of the hillside are five round chapels once used for solitary meditation.

Down below, the crystal-clear waters of the sheltered beach of Portinho da Arrábida are relatively warm and popular with scuba divers and underwater fishermen.

The poet Robert Southey wrote about swimming in the area, saying "I have no idea of sublimity exceeding it."

When in Arrábida, stop at Azeitão nearby and its fine mansions.

Go on a tour of Arrabida Natural Park from Lisbon!

Places Nearby

Setubal - Busy port; the birthplace of Manueline architecture; dolphin watching Sesimbra - Calm waters in a fishing town; a mystical cape Azeitão - Sleepy village with fine mansions and wine Lisbon - The Age of Discovery, World Heritage monuments, museum treasures, vibrant nightlife